Busch Gardens to offer free day tickets

New program aimed at increasing pet adoptions in area

NEWPORT NEWS—Busch Gardens is partnering with the Peninsula SPCA and the Heritage Humane Society to raise adoption awareness for homeless animals on the Peninsula.

The new animal adoption program, Happy Tails, will provide people with two free single-day tickets to Busch Gardens when they successfully adopt a dog or cat from a participating shelter. Tickets are valid for one year from the pet adoption date for a single-day admission to the theme park.

"Our goal with the Happy Tails program is to encourage adoption of these great animals that need a loving home. We are pleased to work with organizations like Heritage Humane Society and the Peninsula SPCA since they are so dedicated to the well-being of animals in the Hampton Roads community," Jay Tacey, Busch Gardens' zoological manager, said in a press release.

Busch Gardens has a long history of supporting local animal shelters by providing homes and a second chance at life for abandoned and neglected animals. The park employs several adopted animals in its popular show, "Pet Shenanigans."

"We are excited to be partnering with Busch Gardens' Happy Tails animal adoption program. The Peninsula SPCA's volunteers and staff work tirelessly to care for hundreds of animals in our care daily. It's encouraging to have Busch Gardens' recognize our efforts and give thanks to our adopters who are opening their hearts and home," said Vicki Rowland, SPCA director of marketing and programs, in a press release.

Want to know more?

•Visit http://www.buschgardens.com/happytails for more information on the adoption program.

•The Peninsula SPCA is located at 523 J. Clyde Morris Blvd. in Newport News. The shelter's operating hours are Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The shelter is closed on Sundays. Visit http://www.peninsulaspca.com or call 595-1399 for more information.